Where can an Apprenticeship Lead? Celebrities who started their careers as an apprentice

Not everyone is suited to the classroom, we thought we’d introduce you to this well-known bunch, that weren’t exactly Einstein either – we think you will agree, they have all done pretty well for themselves!

Ross Brawn, Automotive Apprentice
One of the most respected men in Formula 1, who has directed teams at Benetton, Ferrari, Brawn and Mercedes

Karren Brady, Business Apprentice
Lord Sugar’s trusty assistant on The Apprentice and highly successful business women

John Freida, Hairdressing Apprentice
Top celebrity hairstylist with an internationally renowned range of hair products

Billy Connolly, Engineering Apprentice
Back in the 1960s before his shining career in comedy took off, Sir Billy Connolly was busy learning his trade as an apprentice welder.

Stella McCartney and Karen Millen, Fashion Apprentices
Some of the most famous designers in the world

Eric Clapton, Fenestration Apprentice
One of the best and most well-known guitarists of all time

Michael Caine, Plumbing Apprentice
Probably one of the most well-known actors in the UK, who starred in some of the most well-known films of all time

Ozzy Osbourne, Plumbing Apprentice
The Prince of Darkness and the godfather of heavy metal

Elvis Presley, Electrical Apprentice
The King of Rock and Roll

Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsey and Gary Rhodes, Culinary Apprentices
Household names in the culinary industry

Sir Alex Ferguson, Tool Making Apprentice
Former Manager of Manchester United Football Club

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School